McKean Lakes is a worthwhile alpine destination, tucked away on the edge of Valhalla Provincial Park. The road is long, the trail is steep, but the lakes are cradled beneath impressive peaks.
Difficult
“Red Mountain” seems to be a pretty common name in the Koots. There’s a few of them! But this one is the neighbour of Toad Mountain in the Bonnington Range above Nelson. It has the characteristic red rock, but also offers great hiking off the beaten path.
Moderate
One of the best ridgeline hikes in the Kootenays! Hiking a loop around Mount Reco will bring you through alpine meadows surrounded by peaks. With the option to bag Reco’s summit, this is a great day in the mountains.
Moderate
Grassy Mountain is renown for its winter powder, but it’s also a great summer destination for those that don’t mind hiking off trail. You can explore the ridges which are full of spring wildflowers and offer big wide views of the Bonnington Range.
Difficult
Going up and over Elephant Mountain is a big day. But sometimes that’s just what you need to break in those boots! This is a difficult hike with significant elevation, but it’s scenic and close to home! At each milestone, the City of Nelson shrinks further below and more and more peaks unfold from the distant valleys.
Difficult
Hiking Toad Mountain via Giveout Creek FSR leads you along a forested trail to access the summit from the northern ridge. The ridge line ascent is a little less scenic than the original trail from the Silverking mine, but much easier for hikers and vehicles alike! The summit of Toad offers epic views of the Nelson and surrounding peaks!
Easy
The Smallwood lookout boasts one of the biggest benches with one of the biggest views. It’s part of a large mountain bike trail network, but hiking the Smallwood ridge-line as an “out and back” is an easy option with lots of reward.
Easy
Ward’s Ferry Trail connects the communities of Blewett and Glade with scenic riverside hiking. Before the highway and railroad were built, Ward’s Ferry was the main option for travellers in the 1880’s to cross the Kootenay River. This historical trail passes by the site of the old ferry landing and traces remnants of wagon roads.
Moderate
Everyone loves a good waterfall! And Little McPhee Falls is a two-tiered beauty that roars during the spring melt and quiets to a mossy trickle in the fall. This forested trail can be extended into a nice loop above the Kootenay River.
Easy
A short hike with panoramic views over Castlegar! This is a great shoulder-season trail as the main climb is snow-free in early April. You can also extend your hike to reach the Brilliant Overlook Trail higher above.
Easy